Genital Warts

Symptoms

Symptoms of genital warts may be mild or absent, especially in early stages. When present, common symptoms include:

• Small, flesh-colored or gray growths on the genitals or around the anus

• Warts that may be flat, raised, or cauliflower-shaped

• Itching, irritation, or discomfort in the affected area

• Bleeding during sexual intercourse in some cases

Some individuals may have genital warts without noticing visible lesions.

Causes

Genital warts are caused by infection with specific types of human papillomavirus, most commonly HPV types 6 and 11. The virus spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity, even when no visible warts are present. HPV can infect the genital area, mouth, or throat.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing genital warts, including:

• Unprotected sexual activity

• Multiple sexual partners

• Early sexual activity

• Weakened immune system

• History of other sexually transmitted infections

HPV infection is common, and many people may carry the virus without symptoms.

Complications

Although genital warts are generally benign, complications can occur:

• Recurrence of warts after treatment

• Emotional distress or anxiety

• Discomfort during sexual activity

• Transmission of HPV to sexual partners

Certain HPV types are associated with cancers, but the types causing genital warts are typically low risk for cancer.

Prevention

Genital warts can often be prevented through vaccination and safe sexual practices:

• Receiving the HPV vaccine before sexual activity begins

• Using condoms consistently, which can reduce but not eliminate risk

• Limiting the number of sexual partners

• Regular health screenings and sexual health checkups

• Avoiding sexual contact when visible warts are present

Preventive measures are key to reducing the spread of HPV and the development of genital warts.